I was reminded to slow down and take care of myself this week (I know, I say that often).
Brian and I went bell to bell for three days, and then I fell ill on Wednesday evening. I’ve been on the mend since then, with it really kicking my ass.
It was basically a year ago today that I was last sick and it seems like every time I do get sick, it’s a nasty virus that keeps me at home for a few days. This was no different.
Lying there on the couch gave me time to think about anything I wanted. I mostly thought about what habits I needed to “edit” to be a better leader.
A more centered leader.
As I mentioned previously, there’s so much going on, and we’re, in many ways, steering (what feels like) the Titanic through rough, then smooth, then rough seas. No, it’s not a $50 million company by any means but it’s bigger than I’ve ever built, so it feels like the Titanic.
The topic for the week is practice and conditioning.
Or, rather, reconditioning.
We all have bad habits. We’ve conditioned ourselves to repeat them over and over.
They’re incredibly difficult to break; to recondition.
But I truly believe our best selves are on the other side of each of these bad habits.
They are the reason we’re not at the level we’re capable of. They’re inhibiting us from greatness.
That was the topic this past week.
Are you practicing? How much? How good is your practice?
I had a conversation this week where I said, “I can tell when you’re practicing and when you’re not.”
It comes out in the wash. It’s easy for me to see.
It starts with seeing it in myself. I look in the mirror some days, and I’m disappointed in my work ethic. It’s not that I didn’t work hard the day before, but I didn’t work on the right stuff.
I didn’t progress. I did things I enjoyed instead of the things I needed to become better.
This week, Thanksgiving week, I’m focused on being grateful for the village around me.
I’m grateful for those who have chosen to join me on this journey. I’m thankful for those willing to help by being transparent and loving.
I’m thankful for my friends and family.
Give your loved friends and loved ones a hug; you never know when it will be the last.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.
– SJ